Citronella oil is one of the essential oils obtained from different species of Cymbopogon. The oil is used extensively as a source of perfumery chemicals such as citronellal, citronellol and geraniol. These chemicals find extensive use in soap, perfumery, cosmetic and flavouring industries throughout the world. Citronella oil is classified in trade into two types: Ceylon citronella oil (obtained from Cymbopogon nardus Rendle) is the inferior type; Java Type (obtained from Cymbopogon winterianus Jowitt) is considered superior. As an alternative to DEET, citronella oil is the principal ingredient in many products used to repel insects.